User Manual

Antelope Audio Zen Go Synergy Core User Manual
Page 44
Gain control
Click and drag to adjust input gain. The available gain range is defined by the signal type:
● Mic: 0dB to 65dB
● Line: -6dB to 20dB
● Hi-Z: 0dB to 60dB
As a rule of thumb, adjust gain until you get the input signal to consistently peak around -12dB
on the peak meter. If you manage that and there's an excessive amount of noise (such as hiss
and hum), decrease gain until you obtain a comfortable signal-to-noise ratio (the signal is not
too weak, and the noise is much quieter or inaudible). You can also try using a noise gate.
If none of these approaches produce satisfactory results, the problem could be in your signal
chain or equipment. For example, some low-sensitivity dynamic microphones are naturally
noisy when amplified; magnetic pickups on electric stringed instruments are prone to electro-
magnetic interference (EMI), which causes hum and buzz; electronic components in analog
equipment may deteriorate over time; low-quality and worn-out cables degrade signals, and
so on. Inspect your equipment, and practice proper gain-staging (make sure the output from
one unit in the signal chain to the input of the next is not too weak or too strong).
Peak meter
Visualizes the input signal strength. Peak meters are also present on the Zen Go Synergy
Core's display. When the peak meter is going into the red, it means the signal is too strong
and will be degraded by audible distortion and clipping. Occasional dips into the yellow are
acceptable.